Cherokee Falls - Canal Embankment Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cherokee Falls - Canal Embankment is a captivating hydroelectric structure located in Cherokee, South Carolina, along the Broad River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1988, this concrete dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 800 feet in length, serving a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power. The dam has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 140 acre-feet, and covers a surface area of 35 acres.

Owned privately, Cherokee Falls - Canal Embankment is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and inspected by the same agency to ensure its safe operation. The dam presents a low hazard potential, but its risk assessment rating is high, indicating a need for robust risk management measures. Despite its risk level, the condition assessment for the structure is not available, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital water resource infrastructure.

Designed by Cerney And Ivey Engineers Inc. from Norcross, Georgia, Cherokee Falls - Canal Embankment plays a crucial role in the local hydroelectric landscape, contributing to the region's energy production and water management. With its strategic location and efficient operation, this dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resources and climate considerations in the realm of infrastructure development and sustainability.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Broad River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.